College of the Canyons’ blossoming network of gardens was given an extra boost on Monday.
In front of small crowd gathered at the Valencia campus, Jim Bizzelle, representing Pardee Homes and parent company Weyerhaeuser, awarded the community college with a $5,000 check toward the Gardens of the Canyons.
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The hope is that with community help and grants, the 15 gardens will eventually be connected by trail markers designating a nature walk, which would take about an hour to complete on foot.
According to Murray Wood, Chief Development Officer of the COC Foundation, the project came together in the spring of 2009 when six staff members were challenged to think of an innovative idea for the campus.
After brainstorming, the staff members thought of a fitting way to beautify the campus’ 167 acres.
Truth be told, experiencing the entire linkage is quite an exercise, but well worth it. Whether it’s the raised fruit and vegetable garden outside the Early Childhood Center, a bevy of roses bordering the library or the massive oak reach toward the tops of Mentry Hall – the campus is surrounded by a breathing, green calm.
This feeling is exemplified in the Meditation Garden. Swept between the tennis courts and the softball field, the open area is still and quiet, and the college hopes to incorporate it with certain classes in the future.
“We have a beautiful campus and we’re very proud of it,” said Wood.